Are Nurses Covered Under Workers’ Compensation in IL?

While many see hospitals as a location where they can receive treatment for the injuries and illnesses they have endured, it can be a dangerous workplace for the employees staffed there. Unfortunately, nurses often sustain injuries while on the job, which can lead to a number of complications. As such, if this reflects your circumstances, the following blog explores what your rights are as an injured nurse, including how to navigate the workers’ comp process with the assistance of an Illinois workers’ compensation lawyer to guide you through this process.

What Injuries Do Nurses Often Sustain while on the Job?

Unfortunately, despite the fact that nurses work in hospitals, they may sustain a number of injuries while on the job. Common injuries and illnesses sustained include, but are by no means limited to, the following:

• Lacerations
• Infections
• Muscle strains
• Broken bones
• Needle injuries
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and other repetitive stress injuries
• Slips and falls

It’s important to understand that, unfortunately, nurses are also the target of violent attacks from patients or family members. As such,  workers can sustain injuries related to assaults and other violent altercations. You should also understand that nurses often witness incredibly traumatic experiences that can leave lasting psychological injuries.

Can Nurses File Claims for Workers’ Compensation?

It’s critical to understand that nurses, like other employees, are eligible to recover compensation for the damages they have sustained in the event they are hurt while on the job. Nurses are bound by the same rules for compensation as all other employees. As such, to qualify, the injury must happen while you are on the job and involved in work-related activities, and you must report the injury to your employer within 45 days, though the sooner you report it, the better. Additionally, you can be barred from recovering compensation for the damages you’ve suffered if you were engaged in illegal activity, horseplay with another employee, or if you are off the clock performing non-work-related injuries at the time of the incident.

In the event you are injured while on the job, it is imperative to seek immediate medical treatment. Even as a healthcare professional, ensuring you are seen by a doctor is critical to establishing medical care following the injury. This can help prevent the workers’ comp insurer from claiming your injuries were not that bad since you didn’t seek treatment.

Sustaining an injury while on the job can be an incredibly difficult experience to navigate, with medical bills and lost wages putting you in a difficult financial position. As such, it is imperative to connect with a dedicated attorney with the Law Firm of Kevin A. Moore. We understand how complicated this process can be, which is why our firm is here to help you fight for the funds you deserve. Contact us today to learn how we can represent you.